Stress is hard on your immune system. Because of that, overworked tax professionals are at a higher risk of illness during the busies time: Tax Season. Staying healthy during tax season impacts your productivity, your practice, and your bottom line. Remember to take time for the little things. They can make a significant difference. Taking care of you means you can be at your best for your clients.
We know the fundamentals to avoid the spread of illness: Wash your hands with warm water and soap; use disinfectant sprays or wipes on door handles and countertops; cough or sneeze into the crook of your arm rather than into your hands.
Most of us remember to abide by them during cold and flu season, but some of the easiest options areBut the following lesser-known tips may be the ones that make the difference for you and yours at the busiest time of your practice’s year.
Boost your vitamin D intake
Research in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey shows vitamin D deficiency has been prevalent among U.S. adults for more than a decade. Increasing your vitamin D levels can help your immune system work more effectively all season long. Add foods like egg yolks, salmon, yogurt, milk, mushrooms, and fortified breakfast cereals for an easy increase.
Stay active
It’s difficult to find time to exercise during the busiest season of the year, but even small strides can make an impact. A brisk, five-minute walk around the office — or the block, if the weather’s nice — a few times per day can improve your cardiovascular (and overall) health. Getting away from your desk for just a moment is also a welcome stress reliever, and who couldn’t use a little reprieve from filing here and there?
Get your greens
Green, leafy vegetables are an integral component of a healthy diet — scientific research has shown that staples like broccoli, arugula, Brussels sprouts, and bok choy help immune cells function properly. Having trouble fitting cruciferous goodies into your diet? Smoothies made with spinach, ginger, turmeric, and kale can be surprisingly tasty when blended with citrus fruits — another way to get your daily recommended intake of the almighty vitamin C.
Step up your sleep hygiene
Your sleep quality shapes how you approach your day. From promoting a better mood while you’re at the office to increasing alertness during your commute, your nightly rest is imperative to your overall health. Simple tricks like adding blackout curtains to your bedroom can help immensely, as can sleep masks and a white noise machine — anything to get that superior-quality shuteye on a regular basis.
Note: The above does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your physician before making any changes to your diet and/or exercise regimen.
Take Care of #1
To get the most from your tax season — and to provide your clients with the level of service they expect — you’ve got to put your health first. Bonus tip: Put a basket of complimentary vitamin C drink packets in the lobby or break room. You’ll help everyone around you enjoy a healthier tax season.